A Squad of Four Cheyenne Dog Soldiers

The Dog Soldiers, also known as the “Dog Men,” were a formidable military organization within the Southern Cheyenne tribe. Among the six warrior societies of the Cheyenne, the Dog Soldiers held a unique position, responsible for safeguarding the tribe’s security, both internally and externally. Their unwavering dedication to their way of life was akin to a monk’s devotion to his beliefs. The Dog Soldiers considered their physical bodies merely as vessels, instruments for the protection of their people.

One of the most distinctive and renowned features of the Dog Soldiers was their practice of staking themselves to what they called “dead ground” during battles. This tactic meant that they could neither advance nor retreat. Once pinned down, they could only be relieved by another Dog Soldier, or their party had to withdraw entirely from the scene. This level of commitment and self-sacrifice showcased their determination to defend their tribe at any cost.

During battle, the Dog Soldiers carried eagle bone whistles in their mouths, which they would blow to signal various messages to their fellow warriors. When a whistle went silent in a specific section of the battlefield, it was a somber indicator that a Dog Soldier had fallen in combat. Prior to this moment, the fallen warrior would have sung his death song, fully embracing his fate, and no longer thinking of home. This practice symbolized the extraordinary courage and resolve of the Dog Soldiers.

In addition to their role in external security during times of conflict, the Dog Soldiers played a crucial role in maintaining internal order within the Cheyenne camp. They were tasked with ensuring that families moved promptly during camp relocation days. When some families lagged behind in the packing process, a visit from the Dog Soldiers was all it took to convey the urgency of the situation. Their mere presence served as a powerful motivator to expedite the process.

Furthermore, before major hunting expeditions, the Dog Soldiers would check on the younger warriors to ensure none of them sneaked away prematurely to claim the first kill or disrupt the herd. Their responsibilities extended to maintaining discipline and order within the tribe, making them akin to a tribal law enforcement team.

Despite their relatively small numbers, never exceeding 500 at their peak, the Dog Soldiers were a force to be reckoned with. They were feared and respected for their reputation and the gravity of their responsibilities. The legacy of the Dog Soldiers endures as a testament to the unwavering dedication and courage of the Southern Cheyenne tribe in protecting their people and way of life.

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